Hike the Lanikai Pillboxes

Hiking to the Lanikai Pillboxes is an easy, leisurely walk that offers amazing views of Mokulua Islands and Lanikai beach. This is a dog and family friendly hike.

The Lanikai Pillbox Trail, also known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail, is a family-friendly hike. The beginning of the trail is steep with loose gravel, but gets more manageable as you climb the trail. The hike is ~1.25 miles one-way and is an out-and-back trail with a 500ft elevation gain. If you’re an early-riser, this is a great hike to do just before the sun rises. The pillboxes offer panoramic views as well as of the Mokulua Islands. This trail allows dogs on a leash if you’re hiking with your four-legged friend(s). After the hike, you can hang out at Lanikai Beach and rent paddleboards, kayaks, or just go for a swim. If you’re like us and are famished after hiking and have some time, head to Cinnamon’s Restaurant for a bite.

Pack List

Walking shoes

Swimsuit

Beach gear

Sun block

Water

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How to Get There

Reviews

This is a great hike if you have time and are in the Kailua area. There are two trailheads you can park at. The directions for the trailhead on The Outbound put you in a little less crowded neighborhood with more parking, but the hike to the pillboxes is longer. This hike is moderate (it can be a little tough if you're bringing the whole family and/or don't have great shoes for the trail). You'll be walking on roots, rocks, and tackling a decent incline on the way up. Once you make it to the ridgeline, the hike becomes much easier. If you want a shorter hike to the pillboxes, the trailhead is at 21.38847,-157.7222644.

A steep but short climb, the pillboxes trail delivers amazing panoramic views at a very low cost. Always a favorite whenever I'm in Hawaii, it doesn't get old. For the beginner it may seem steep and Rocky but any experienced hiker will be up and back in no time. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic on top of the cement structures while taking in the view. Watch for broken glass if you remove your shoes.

View was good, looking at the bay and the two islands. The east side of the hills were really windy which kept us cool, and lots of people had dogs off leash but didn't cause any issues. Graffiti all over the pill boxes adds something to look at.

This is a great hike which is short but offers incredible views over Lanikai Beach and the surrounding area. I should have heeded Brooke's warning and gone at sunrise or in the morning - The midday sun made this feel harder than it actually was! :P

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24 years old, currently living in Central Alberta. Having obtained my Social Worker Degree, I am currently employed as a FT Youth Worker and Resiliency Coach at a K-8 school in my home town. Working school hours has its benefits, as I am able to spend every weekend as well as holidays and summer months out adventuring, exploring and traveling. Kayaking, hiking, biking, running, photography and camping are some of my favourite activities. Also living so close to the Rocky Mountains I am blessed with endless trails, scenery and opportunity to explore. With 14 countries under my belt I want to and will continue to explore our beautiful world on an International level.